The Pentax K-1 full frame camera launched in February 2016 and made quite a splash in the Pentax community. This first full frame Pentax DSLR, loaded with many new and innovative features, was the camera many users had been waiting for.

A super ISO and new Pixel Shift Resolution Most of the new camera's core appears to be the same as that of the K-1, such as the 36.4MP full-frame sensor that lacks an optical low-pass filter.

I would recommend this camera for landscape photographers and portrait artists. It's a great camera to step up to if you have been using an APS-C camera, especially if you have Pentax lenses already.

The Pentax K-1 has an ardent fan base. The second generation, albeit a very able camera, failed to add much with the upgrade. It retains a 36.4MP 35mm sensor, 3.2in 1037k-dot tilting screen, which lacks touch functionality, and a 5-axis in-body image stabilisation system.

Canon and Nikon may dominate the full-frame DSLR market, but the Pentax K-1 Mark II is a compelling alternative...

36MP resolving power; Clever use of Shake Reduction; Sturdy build and controls

Weak video features; Only 4.4fps continuous shooting; Contrast-detect AF in live view

Pentax's new K-1 Mark II arrives some two years after the original K-1 -- that seems to be the general update cycle for all but the entry-level models -- with only two real enhancements. Even those are made possible by a single hardware change. But these updates may possibly mean a big improvement for people who need better low-light quality or who use Pentax's Pixel Shift Resolution mode. Otherwise, it's identical to its predecessor in all ways but the name badge.

There are only two updates to Pentax's flagship DSLR, but they're potentially impressive.

The Pentax K-1 II features a stabilized 36MP Full Frame sensor and one of the toughest-built bodies on the market. Jam-packed with unique features to aide those shooting under harsh conditions, we're big fans of its many control points and great ergonomics. However, its image quality offers no improvement over that of its predecessor. Its autofocus performance and video capabilities also lag greatly behind the competition.

Landscape and adventure shooters needing a camera as tough as they are. Still life and macro photographers.;

Those wishing to photograph sports, action or active children. Video shooters. Those seeking an unobtrusive and/or light camera body.;

Huge degree of external control; Excellent rugged, weather-sealed build quality; Superb image quality, with high resolution and dynamic range; In-body stabilisation gives sharper images with almost any lens; Compatible with vast range of new and used K-mount lenses;

Heavy and bulky body; Slow wake-up from auto power-off; Screen isn’t touch-sensitive; Sluggish live view autofocus;